Namibia Reports First Cholera Case in a Decade, Africa CDC Issues Alert
Namibia reported its first cholera case in ten years, prompting health authorities to enhance surveillance. The 55-year-old patient has recovered, but the case is linked to a cholera outbreak in Angola, which has seen significant infections and deaths. The Africa CDC has supplied vaccines to Angola and emphasizes the need for broader resources to combat the disease effectively.
Namibia has confirmed its first cholera case in a decade, as reported by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). The confirmation marks a significant alert for the country’s health authorities. The patient, a 55-year-old woman from the Kunene region, displayed diarrhoeal symptoms but has since recovered and has been discharged from the hospital. Health officials are intensifying surveillance and response strategies, despite no recent travel history outside Namibia.
Africa CDC director Jean Kaseya has connected this case to the ongoing cholera outbreak in Angola, which has resulted in 6,564 infections and 237 deaths since January. Due to the proximity of the Kunene region to Angola, there is an increased risk of cross-border disease transmission. However, Kaseya mentioned that Angola’s infection rates have been declining, and efforts continue to manage this situation effectively.
In support of the response, the Africa CDC has allocated 2,000 oral cholera vaccines to Angola, specifically for healthcare workers. Kaseya highlighted the necessity for additional resources to ensure a wider distribution of vaccines. Cholera is a severe disease caused by bacteria that spread through contaminated food and water, leading to potentially fatal dehydration if untreated. Vulnerable groups, particularly children under five, face considerable risk from this disease.
Preventing cholera outbreaks hinges on adequate access to clean water, sanitation, and vaccination. Notably, the World Health Organisation (WHO) reported a 12% reduction in cholera cases across Africa in 2024, though fatalities have increased by 3.1%. In January, Africa experienced the highest number of cholera cases and deaths globally, as highlighted by a WHO report published last month. In light of this recent case, Namibian health authorities are on heightened alert and are bolstering response measures to prevent future infections.
In summary, Namibia’s confirmation of its first cholera case in ten years prompts increased vigilance from health authorities. The link to Angola’s cholera outbreak underscores the need for effective monitoring and preventive measures. Continued vaccination efforts and improved access to clean water and sanitation remain critical in combating cholera, particularly as the region faces ongoing challenges with the disease.
Original Source: www.arise.tv
